Katic’s exit was reportedly a budgetary move on ABC’s part. Katic released a statement, saying, “Rather then distract from what was an amazing experience, I would just like to say that I’m very grateful to ABC for giving me the opportunity to be a part of a much beloved show. Thank you to the fans.”

Fillion also released a statement, thanking Katic “for creating the character of Beckett.” He also added, “I wish her well, and have no doubt she will succeed in everything she pursues. She will be missed.”

Fillion’s goodbye to Katic did not sit well with fans, especially considering the rumors of an intense behind-the-scenes feud between the two actors.

Executive producer Alexi Hawley told TV Line that if Castle was canceled, an alternate ending that provides closure for fans would be swapped in, as opposed to one that allowed the show to move forward in a slightly “altered incarnation” next season. So, it looks like we’ll be getting that alternate ending and a series finale after all.

“If we hear that we’re not coming back, we have shot something that we can put at the end of the episode as a way to put a button on everything,” Hawley told EW. “Obviously that would be a bad thing because it would mean no more. We did it in order to try to protect the fans, because you can’t end the series on a cliffhanger.”

While Castle fans on Twitter are upset about the show being canceled, they are happy that it won’t go on without Beckett.